Ukraine-Russia News
LAST UPDATE: September 24, 2025
Trump says NATO countries should shoot down Russian aircraft if they enter NATO airspace
President Trump stated that NATO countries should shoot down Russian aircraft that enter NATO airspace. His comments came after recent incursions by Russian jets and drones into the airspace of Estonia and Poland, raising tensions with the alliance.
Insight
Trump’s suggestion of a more aggressive response to Russian airspace violations is a departure from the more cautious approach of some European NATO members. It could signal a potential shift toward a more confrontational stance against Russia, aligning with a more hawkish view on national defense.
Zelenskiy meets Trump at UN, calling for more pressure on Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy met with Donald Trump on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly and called for more pressure on Russia. The meeting was part of a larger effort by Zelenskiy to garner more support from the US and persuade Trump to adopt a more firm stance against Russia.
Insight
The meeting between the two leaders, though brief, is highly significant. It shows Ukraine’s strategic efforts to secure US support regardless of who is in the White House. The call for more pressure on Russia reflects Kyiv’s desire for a stronger, more decisive international response to the conflict.
NATO warns Russia to stop ‘escalatory’ actions after Estonian airspace violation
NATO has warned Russia to cease its “escalatory” actions following a violation of Estonian airspace by Russian jets. The alliance stated it would use “all necessary military and non-military tools” to defend itself, calling the behavior a pattern of “increasingly irresponsible behavior.”
Insight
The strong condemnation from NATO, following a series of similar incidents, shows a growing alarm within the alliance over Russian provocations. The warning of a response using “all necessary tools” is a clear signal that NATO is prepared to escalate its defense measures if needed.
EU’s von der Leyen says she wants Europe to stop buying Russian oil by end of year
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has stated her desire for Europe to stop buying Russian oil by the end of the year. This aggressive timeline is part of a broader strategy to cut off Russia’s revenue from fossil fuels and reduce Europe’s dependence on Russian energy.
Insight
Von der Leyen’s statement shows the EU’s commitment to using economic sanctions as a key tool of foreign policy. The ambition to end Russian oil imports by year-end is a significant move that would have major implications for both the European and Russian economies.
Russia says further restrictions on fuel exports are possible if needed, Ifax reports
Russia’s Deputy Energy Minister stated that further restrictions on fuel exports are possible if needed, according to a report by Interfax. The warning comes amid ongoing concerns about domestic fuel shortages, which have been exacerbated by drone attacks on refineries.
Insight
This is a clear signal that Russia is prioritizing domestic fuel supply over exports. Any new restrictions would have significant implications for the global energy market, potentially driving up prices and creating new supply chain challenges for importing countries.
